Key message: Imports stable relative to 2022. The weak ZAR has resulted in imported cement prices increasing 14% YTD.

  • January to July 2023 saw imports of 537kt, flat compared to the same period in 2022. Cement imports fell 31% to 730kt for CY22. Cement imports to July 2023 are down 10% on a 12-month rolling basis.
  • Vietnam continues to be the primary source of imported cement. Small amounts of cement are being imported from Mozambique and Namibia (<5% of total). Clinker imports to Port Elizabeth (for Cemza) are sourced from the Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE).
  • The local price of imported cement is rising, allowing the local producers more leeway to increase prices. ZAR FOB prices have increased 14% YTD for imported cement (USD prices flat).
  • The negative impact on the South African economy caused by substituting local cementproduction with imported cement was highlighted in a report released by cement manufacturer PPC in conjunction with the Centre for African Management and Markets (CAMM). The report shows a potential R2.6-billion-a-year loss in economic value in an already-strained economic environment and potential job losses of over 2200 across the PPC value chain.

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